Description
A classic, tender and fluffy white bread loaf that’s perfect for sandwiches, toast, or just warm with butter.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1½ teaspoons salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1½ cups warm water (105-110°F/40-43°C)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil for greasing
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine warm water with sugar and yeast. Stir gently and let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 3½ cups of flour and salt. Make a well in the center, add the activated yeast mixture and softened butter. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
- Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, gradually adding remaining flour until smooth and elastic.
- Lightly oil a clean bowl, place dough in and turn to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm, draft-free spot until doubled, about 1 hour.
- Punch down the dough, shape into a 9×14 inch rectangle, roll tightly from the short end, pinch seams and tuck ends.
- Place shaped dough into a greased 9×5 inch loaf pan. Cover and let rise until dough crowns about 1 inch over the pan, about 45 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Optional: brush top with melted butter. Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and hollow sounding when tapped.
- Remove from pan and cool on wire rack for at least 1 hour before slicing.
Notes
Use a thermometer to ensure water is between 105-110°F. Perform the windowpane test to check gluten development. For a soft crust, place a shallow pan of water in the oven while baking. Always cool completely before slicing for best texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Baking
- Method: Oven
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 1.5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 0.8g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: white bread, soft bread, sandwich bread, homemade bread